This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to impose stricter penalties for traffic infractions that result in crashes with other vehicles. Specifically, it requires that individuals found guilty of certain infractions at a mandatory hearing face civil penalties and driver license suspensions. For example, if a person is found to have committed an infraction resulting in a crash, they must pay a civil penalty of $1,000 and face a six-month license suspension. If the infraction involves a vulnerable road user, the penalties increase significantly, with fines starting at $5,000 and a one-year license suspension. The bill also introduces new mandatory hearing requirements for specific infractions that result in crashes.

Additionally, the bill mandates that owners and operators of motor vehicles who have been found guilty of certain infractions establish financial responsibility for bodily injury or death resulting from accidents. This includes maintaining liability coverage of $100,000 for individual injuries and $300,000 for multiple injuries, as well as $50,000 for property damage. The bill aims to enhance road safety and ensure that victims of traffic accidents have access to necessary financial resources for medical and other related expenses. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1210 Filed: 318.14, 318.19, 324.023